Best-Selling Authors Set Sail With Avalon Waterways

Bookworms will be in their element on upcoming Avalon Waterways sailings.

Stephanie Bishop, managing director of the Globus Family of Brands in this country, told a Baxter Media webcast that a number of upcoming Avalon sailings will feature best-selling authors who will be available for the likes of signings.

Those authors will include Diana Gabaldon, whose works include Outlander and who will be on an Oct. 30-Nov. 6 Romantic Rhine sailing.

“She’s really excited to take this journey with us,” Bishop said.

Gabaldon has sailed with Avalon before.

Other authors who will be on Avalon European cruises this year or next include Candace Bushnell, who penned Sex and the City, and who will be on a July 19-27, 2022 Seine cruise. “I think that’s going to be a fascinating experience,” Bishop stated.

A number of other well-known authors will be on European sailings, Bishop noted.

“My recommendation is if you have avid book readers to really, really spread the word (about the sailings with the authors) as quickly as possible because we’re seeing itineraries fill,” she added.

Bookings are also strong for Christmas sailings.

Bishop also praised Avalon’s Active & Discovery cruises and noted the company has itineraries that revolve around history, photography, and a host of other topics.

Those interested in beer, gardens and cuisine can also be accommodated.

Bishop labelled the Rhine a “winding, whimsical wonder.”

Although the lion’s share of Avalon cruises are in Europe, the company is returning to Egypt and has Mekong, Amazon, Ganges and Galapagos sailings.

Bishop reported that Avalon crew members will be vaccinated  against coronavirus and safety protocols such as social distancing will be in place, adding sailings will be “done in the most safe and healthy way.”

The company’s Peace of Mind Travel Plan among other things provides penalty-free flexibility.

Bishop also stated that Avalon sailings are informal.

“What we really want the most is for our guests to sit back and relax,” she said. “We want them to have great views…We want them to have an enjoyable journey.”